The Spinster’s Scandalous Betrothal: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Regency Ethereal Encounters Book 2)

Customer Reviews

• H***********n

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  Strong characters, but too brief
  
  The characters felt warm and genuine, but that was somehow the most frustrating part. I would have loved to see more room for these characters to fill out and progress. There was also a lingering anticlimactic sense that I wanted to experience how the leads would deal with future problems, not just the one and done nature of the provided foils to bring them together. The duchess’ sudden lack of interference at the end rang hollow. It’s not that I needed her comeuppance, but there was also no visible redemption. I just needed to know MORE and the extended epilogue was 100% HEA with little elaboration. All this being said, I recommend this book if you’re looking for a sweet and simple read with only a touch of tart angst, and you’re confident you’ll be content leaving it at just that.

  May 23, 2025

• D****n

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Very good!
  
  Emily Barnet is a new to me author, I received an ARC, all opinions are mine,this is a very good, clean, sweet,book it is not a Christian romance, or faith based, like I usually read,but it is very good, there was a bit of language that I don’t care for, but overall, I would recommend!!

  April 17, 2025

• m****m

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Wonderful Story
  
  My kind of story. I loved Belinda and the Duke what a perfect couple to get together. They certainly knew and understood each other. Yes, this story had a villain like they all do, but it was nothing dark and dangerous, which I don’t care for. The epilogue was perfect. I would recommend this book.

  March 25, 2025

• A*C

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Well portrayed
  
  Cute clean story of a girl with a ruined reputation and a man with a poor one. Both with scars from it. Story draws you in, and you feel for the characters. Even for the girl being pushed to the Beast. It’s just enough drama to keep it interesting. Morals portrayed. Never take gossip for truth. Make your own deductions on people’s character by actually knowing them. On a side note, it would be interesting to see how the new dutchess gets along with her new mother in law.

  March 19, 2025

• I******a

  Rating: ⭐⭐

  Interesting idea but lacking in execution
  
  As an avid reader of Regency novels–both written at the time and contemporary attempts to mirror those–I am accustomed to the hallmarks of the genre. Nobody reads these stories for the thrilling action or surprise endings. I am more than content with that. The joy of Regency romance lies in the immersion in another time, on in which the slow pace of manners and standards hold emotions in check sufficient to allow for leisurely character development and delicate flowering of the love relationships that are invariably the center of these stories. When I read the premise of this novel, I was intrigued. Two main characters wronged by the stain of scandal coming together to find each other held great promise, to my mind. In this respect, the author has indeed hit on an interesting idea. Sadly, the appeal ends there for me. The plot development, conversation, and characterization are inexpert, like someone watched a period drama set in the Regency and decided they now knew enough about the time period to take a stab at a career writing romance novels set in that time. It takes more than changing the date and describing dresses, however, to create the atmosphere of another time. To take but one example, few if any of the dynamics central to the story make sense in context. It is hard to imagine that a debutante from a titled family whose honor is called into question on the night of her coming out ball would be left out to dry, without any attempt by her father and other family to challenge the cad who used her ill. Nor is it comprehensible that a duke in his early thirties would be nearly crippled by memories, however horrid, of bullying in his school days. Still, I let this pass in hopes for the emotional depth that this setup, however sloppy, could allow. The author, however, seems does little to fill out more than a skimpy silhouette of a story. Conversations are bland. Interactions during social events lack continuity, with people appearing and reappearing at random. Narration of the characters’ feelings depend on too-frequent repetition rather than revelations of their heart. Villains either vanish or neatly slip away into the background without consequence. Somehow, I made it through the story nevertheless, and even read the extended epilogue to see if something was salvaged. It wasn’t. It felt like a treacly reunion episode for a mediocre Hallmark series. Two stars for the good intentions evident in the effort, and for the creation of two main characters sympathetic enough to make me wish the best for them. Still, I won’t be reading more from this author. However sincere her attempt to bring the Regency to life in this novel, the execution is lacking and fails to do justice to the underlying premise and the characters arising from it. Readers interested in authors who write with the spirit of the Regency in more recent times can look to the likes of Mary Kingswood and Alice Chetwynd Ley, or go a bit farther back in time for novels by Marion Chesney and Georgette Heyer, and their kind.

  December 27, 2024

• N****9

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  enjoyed easy reading
  
  It’s a wonderful escape book just sit and read and relax,what more could we ask for in life. I spend. Lot of time reading books keep me company

  November 16, 2024

• J***************n

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Great Story
  
  Great story and I enjoyed it very much. Would recommend to all who enjoy regency romance. I like Emily’s books.

  October 13, 2024

• M*****a

  Rating: ⭐

  Limited, simplistic vocabulary
  
  The storyline might have been enjoyable if the characters had believable conversations with more than the very basic: It’s a fine day, isn’t it? Yes, indeed.

  October 8, 2024

• e***5

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Benedict and Belinda!
  
  These are two lovely and wonderful people. I enjoyed the book. I had a little trouble with Benedict not being more forceful with his mother.

  September 18, 2024

• K*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  A reasonable novel
  
  A few typos, and a quick ending, and an unexplained man hiding behind trees. The plot was interesting, A much maligned young lady, with no defense, against malicious rumors. A quiet gentleman, of large size, mocked by acquaintances, is standing on the sidelines of society.

  August 31, 2024

• R******c

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  Unoriginal
  
  This reminded me too much of Pride & Prejudice even down to the “Mom/Aunt” coming to the house at the end. Belinda’s middle name is even Eliza. Really? I really liked Benedict except he let his momma run him as if he was not the Duke.

  August 19, 2024

• A****************t

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  a good story
  
  This was a feel good story. It would have been improved by having a proofreader catch the incorrect words in the story other than that, I gave it 3 stars because it made me smile. It made me angry on the main character’s behalf, but it did not make me laugh or cry. I wish to encourage the author to continue to write. I think that with more experience, she could become great like Mary Balough, Julia Quinn, and Arnett Lamb. Three of my favorite authors

  August 17, 2024

• M***Z

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  endearing characters and story
  
  Couldn’t put this book down. The author has an ability to make the characters come alive. There were times when I really wanted to smack the Duke’s mother and wishes he make her move to the dower house, the witch.

  August 15, 2024

• K*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Enjoyable story
  
  The heart knows what the heart knows is the theme of this relationship even against all scandals and controversy. The heart still wins.

  August 15, 2024

• K*B

  Rating: ⭐

  torture
  
  I’m sorry, but I did NOT enjoy this book. The Duke is a big hulking man but was an absolute wuss & didn’t stand up to his witch of a mother who was trying to control him, a grown man. The evil witch mother did everything she could to control both her son and daughter throughout this entire book with no consequences. I don’t know why I finished this book, but it was absolute torture until the very last chapter. I was hoping the Duke would eventually stand up to his mother and tell her to mind her own business, that he’s a man and can make his own decisions and choices for his own life & quit treating him like a child. All lady Belinda did was cry & focus on the cruel untrue gossip that was continually and maliciously dealt out repeatedly throughout the book. This book was such a downer, I now need a drink, a giant chocolate bar and a Hallmark movie to feel better. I did read her book A Marriage of Convenience with a Guarded Lady and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was looking forward to reading this book by this author, but was so very sadly disappointed.

  August 10, 2024

• R*****e

  Rating: ⭐

  Weak beast
  
  It was very disappointing that a Duke of the ream would be such a weak character. Throughout the book he allowed his nasty mother to order him around as she manipulated her children and ultimately grossly insulted the woman he was to marry.No Duke would have allowed such a thing to happen in Recency England.The woman would have been packed off to the Dower house immediately.

  August 7, 2024

• L*********n

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Wonderful Romantic Novel
  
  Nothing to dislike in this novel. Lots of rumors but they were carried about with gossips. Happy ending but all but mama!

  July 21, 2024

• K*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Sweet love
  
  I enjoyed this romantic story of love overcoming rumors and lies. It was fun to watch the two discover their feelings for each other. The dukes mother was quite hateful in her attempts to control her children’s lives.. I loved th inclusion of Rowan the dog in this story also

  July 21, 2024

• L*******t

  Rating: ⭐

  Sadly Awful
  
  The idea sounded good, but the dialogue was inconsistent with the period as well as the social interactions. I kept hoping it would get better.

  July 18, 2024

• L*****G

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Great read!
  
  So many obstacles and challenges in the way of love! Great story of overcoming and getting a HEA! Very entertaining book!

  July 11, 2024

• J*************s

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  I loved Benedict and Belinda’s story!
  
  Once the ton had disgraced a person, there was no way that person could appear in public without that disgrace being discussed….. What a pair they must be, a beast and a girl with a terrible reputation of her own. Benedict has a reputation of being a beast… due to his size, strength and temper. Belinda was rumored to have been too forward with man at a ball 8 years ago, and it scarred her reputation. Both of them have been torn down and mistreated by society. But when they meet each other what a blessing it is to find someone who shares your pain, and sees the truth about you. They are both drawn to each other from the very beginning… but everytime they are seen together it risks tarnishing their families name and most of all their sisters debuts into society. To find someone that you are drawn to , and understands you… but be told you can’t be with them, its a hard pill to swallow. In this story you’ll learn more about Benedict and Belindas past. What is true about them and whats just false rumors from the ton. How they slowly let their guard down with each other. And open themselves up to healing from their pasts. And most of all…. whats in the future for them? Sweet, sweet story once again by Emily! I read it all in one day. Both main characters truly are written as such kind people, you can’t help but want to see it through and cheer them on!

  July 11, 2024

• A*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  The Spinster’s Scandalous Betrothal
  
  Beautiful story, with two lovely soul, well written with all the lavish of the 1800 century complet with the worst mother in law. Lovely read thank you

  July 10, 2024

• cd

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Good writing 4 1/2 stars
  
  However…. The main characters both are very insecure. One because of bullying and one because of rumors and gossip mongers. The hero has a decent character arc by confronting his bullies and his past. The heroine has a little epiphany but it’s pretty subtle. The heroine overall is fine but she cries. A lot. I have nothing against crying because I am a crier myself, but this woman….. I don’t know. To me it was a tad much. Overall I like this author and I recommend this book if you subscribe to Kindle unlimited.

  July 10, 2024

• M**B

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Good read
  
  This was a sweet clean love story with a lot of drama added. I did find it a little slow and found myself skipping ahead just to finish it,

  July 9, 2024

• L**a

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  The beginning is great
  
  The beginning is great but it jumps right to the ending. Ifeel sad that it ended so quickly. Th e story just started to take off and then BAM ! THE END!

  July 9, 2024

• W******j

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Excellent Book!!!
  
  This is an excellent book! Emily is becoming one of my favorite authors with this one. The author takes two victimized and damaged people who manage to find each other. Together they support each other and make each other stronger. It is a truly beautiful story with well-fleshed-out characters and the plot moves along at a nice pace. Loved the HEA!! I did receive an ARC, but this is my honest review.

  July 8, 2024

• D*b

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  I want this to be a series!!
  
  I was drawn in immediately and had to sure the good guys won! I loved the details of the estates and the characters were well-developed. The storyline is timeless and could be set in any time period. Ms. Barnet shines a spotlight on the good and bad of humanity. There is an extended epilogue which is a whole story until itself!

  July 8, 2024

• B***y

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Parents, & Scandal Mongers (paper and people), and Men
  
  We have all heard of the expression Lions, & Tigers, & Bears. For Ms. Barnet’s new book The Spinster’s Scandalous Betrothal, I have revised the expression to Parents, & Scandal Mongers (paper and people), and Men. When Belinda was in her first or second season, she went out on the terrace with a gentleman (?). He attempted to kiss her, and she fought him off. He proceeded to go back to the ball and told those who would listen that Belinda is no longer innocent. The scandal was so horrendous that she lost her voucher to Almacks. This book starts approximately eight years after the scandal. Belinda had not attended a Season since the scandal. Unfortunately, she would have to attend the series of balls as her younger sister was making her debut. Her parents have been very supportive and decided to hold the younger daughter’s debut ball at their family home. Belinda went outside for a bit of air. She turned the corner on the terrace and met one of the worst scandal mongers who berated Belinda no matter who was listening. Duke Benedict came from behind and told the ladies to stop the harassment. He escorted Belinda back inside and asked her to dance with him. Thus, Belinda and Benedict started their very rocky road to their HEA. Along the way, we run into a mother who refuses to listen, a possible bride who is afraid of dogs (Benedict’s wolfhound Rowan), a gentleman (?) from Benedict’s past, and Belinda’s eight-year-old scandal. This is a quick read and relatively sex-free, Thank you, Ms. Barnet, for a great book.

  July 7, 2024

• S***K

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Wonderful story
  
  An engaging story of a man and a woman both ostracized by society through no real fault of their own. Their struggle to deal with the past , and particularly with Benedict’s to claim his own future made it difficult to put down.

  July 7, 2024

• KB

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Great Read!
  
  Great book, loved it!

  July 6, 2024

• K*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Very Interesting Characters and Plot
  
  I really did enjoy the storyline and the characters. Both Belinda and Benedict were wrongly condemned by gossip and people with questionable character. This is what brought them together. They realized that you shouldn’t judge someone by what others say about them. I’m glad that Belinda’s parents understood and supported her. And, I am glad that Benedict finally stood up against his mother.

  July 6, 2024

• E******e

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Sweet, clean romance
  
  The story of Belinda and Benedict. This is no simple romance it is complicated with twists and turns. Belinda and Benedict both have issue they need to work through before they can have their HEA. It is a good story, you will not be disappointed.

  July 5, 2024

• A*************r

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Standing up for oneself, acting in a loving way always is successful.
  
  This was an enjoyable read, the characters were believable and interesting. The story with its trial of life felt real. Thankfully, Belinda and Benedict found each other and that makes the world a better place.

  July 5, 2024

• S****n

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Looking closely
  
  I loved that the story has flawed characters. The Ton’s reaction was very different from what people would expect today. The Beast and the outcast create an excellent story that will have you turning pages from the start to the end.

  July 4, 2024

• SL

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  The Spinster’s Scandalous Betrothal
  
  I found this book to be very entertaining. The way the TON treated people back then is something else. But the way Belinda and Benedict stood up to them was great. The story was perfectly written and I enjoyed the ending.

  July 4, 2024

• J**************l

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Good!
  
  I didn’t like this one as much as the other ones. Just didn’t feel a connection to the two main characters. The writing was very well done though.

  July 4, 2024

• M******************a

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  A Regency romance with strong alluring characters
  
  Lady Belinda and the Duke Lord Benedict are two of the most attractive and admirable characters this reader has come across in terms of courage, strength and resilience. It’s easy for this reader to love them both and root for their happily ever after. After damaging rumors were circulated about her, Lady Belinda stays as a spinster 8 years after her debut. She takes comfort in her family and the handful of friends who stay loyal to her. She finds contentment despite being shunned in public, until she gets noticed by a brooding and reticent Duke who comes across her. With a reputation as a “Beast” for his unyielding temper, Lord Benedict has had enough of the ton and London society. What’s worse is his own mother pressures him to make a match of her own choosing. To thwart his mother’s machinations, Lord Benedict proposes marriage to the shunned Lady Belinda because of the qualities she possesses as well as the fact that they seem to share many things in common. Initially, their relationship is fraught with doubts and uncertainties. However, as the days after their initial meeting progress, they find themselves more drawn to each other, finding more common ground and belief in similar principals. It was quite surprising how the Duke’s own family pushes his union with Lady Belinda to end. As Lord Benedict realizes his deep affection and love for Lady Belinda, he stops at nothing to show and prove to her his love. Highly recommended for lovers of historical romances that focus on strong and principled characters. The detailed descriptions of their thoughts and emotions is one of the best elements about this novel. Also, it’s commendable how the author highlights the plight of lords and ladies of Regency times. Despite their wealth and financial means, they become slaves to the societal norms and dictates that make it impossible for them ample freedom and/or independence to determine and find their own path and happiness.

  July 4, 2024

• S*****a

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  If I could I’d give more stars!
  
  Emily and Benedict had both been treated horridly by the Ton. Felt totally less than. Would they ever find someone who would love them even so? I liked this reminder. I forgot to bookmark it so I can’t remember exactly how it went. But. The bully carries the burden of bad not the one being bullied! Wish I’d known this growing up!

  July 3, 2024

• M*********l

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Love always wins
  
  A great plot, complicated but believable. Well done

  July 3, 2024

• J**********e

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Loveable romance
  
  A beguiling romance, such a pleasure to read!

  July 3, 2024

• RH

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Not the same old, same old
  
  This author just keeps getting better and better. ‘Nuff said. I am an ARC reader and happily provide this review.

  July 3, 2024

• T**i

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

  Spinster Scandalous Proposal
  
  Liked descriptions of Bernard the Duke and Belindas emotions, thoughts and fears. Hard to read a repeat of another relationship that is forged from the Tons harsh gossip. Admired drama and courage that builds as both Belinda and the Duke are draw together despite similar harsh gossip. The repeated use of the scent of lavender/roses, the names of favorite flowers and rattling coach too many times are just a few examples. Epilogue not very original with a child,resolving family and relationship issues and going to see the horses. A new theme is needed as this author has promise

  July 3, 2024

• K***********f

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Time together
  
  I really liked the book it was smooth flowing storyline. I’m recommending it to all my friends.

  July 3, 2024

• L******e

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Belinda and Benedicts Love Story
  
  What a beautifully well written clean and refreshing love story in which I could visualize every detailed scene as if I was present was simply delightful. I enjoyed that despite past pain, betrayals, and the gossip of the Ton, a beautiful and very wonderful romance bloomed into true love. I highly enjoyed the very exciting and extremely happy ending for all the characters who deserved it. I highly recommend reading!

  July 2, 2024

• M**K

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Very enjoyable!
  
  Beautiful cover. Loved the interactions between the siblings and the development of the characters. Sweet story that kept me up reading.

  July 2, 2024

• G**********y

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Couldn’t put it down
  
  Loved the story. Had a hard time putting it down until I finished it. Great plot. Great job getting me into the characters

  July 2, 2024

• R*********e

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Love gives strength
  
  Benedict and Belinda were both victims of bullying. They became stronger as they fell in love with each other and found the courage to stand up to them. Benedict’s mother also had a temper and wanted everything to go her way. Benedict found the courage to stand up to her too after his mother finally went too far with trying to get her way. The author really brought her characters to life and portrayed London and the English countryside in a way that made the reader feel like they were transported there, even down to describing the outfits, hairstyles, the smell of the flowers and the boisterous traffic of London. I am looking forward to Emily Barnet’s next book!

  July 2, 2024

• T************d

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Another cute story
  
  Reasonably well written with fairly good editing and not too many anachronisms

  July 2, 2024

• c**********3

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Romance
  
  Well written. Love the characters.

  July 1, 2024

• E****************y

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Wonderful book
  
  This was a really wonderful book. I’m glad that Benedict And Belinda managed to get a happy conclusion.

  July 1, 2024

• B***Y

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Great reading
  
  I have liked every book written by Emily Barnet and this was no exception. Good story, well written, and as always, entertaining.

  July 1, 2024

• S******.

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  LOVED it!!
  
  I enjoy Ms. Emily’s writing style and always love her books!! The addition of the dog was wonderful!!! He was SMART too! He chose the right woman for his Dad!!

  July 1, 2024

• J*d

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Good read!
  
  Belinda was caught in an untrue scandalous rumor spread by a spurned Lord. She was saddened knowing no gentleman would ever marry her. The she met a very special Lord, Duke Benedict. The Duke’s mother kept pushing Lady Penelope on him because she wasn’t happy that he had feelings for Belinda, a woman involved in a scandal. Much happens trying to keep Belinda and Benedict apart. Can their feeling be deep enough to hold them together? Very engaging characters and exciting plot. Definitely worth the read.

  July 1, 2024

• B***y

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Most Enjoyable Read!
  
  Emily Barnet has a 5 star winner with this latest literary offering, in my opinion. I found myself getting so immersed in the well-written plot and characters that I lost all track of time while reading. It was so easy to connect with Belinda and Benedict and sympathize with their wounds they each had incurred from past and present bullying encounters. My emotions ran the entire gamut from joy to anger as I imagined their story in my mind. Couldn’t wait for them to get their HEA! Emily Barnet has become one of my favorite authors, and this newest book did not disappoint this Regency Romance fan. I received this book as an ARC preview and am leaving a voluntary, honest review.

  July 1, 2024

• Jo

  Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

  Beautiful
  
  Beautiful story of Belinda and Benedict. Enjoyed reading it. Well written with great characters.

  July 1, 2024